Nathan Cleary finds himself facing potential challenges ahead of the preliminary finals for the Penrith Panthers.
Following their 19-12 win against the Roosters, Cleary received a fine for dangerous contact but avoided a suspension.
The match review committee classified his incident with Hugo Savala as a Grade 1 charge, leading to a $1,000 penalty instead of a ban. If it had been a Grade 2 charge, he would have faced a two-match suspension.
His foot injury could still jeopardize his participation in the upcoming game, leaving both fans and team officials anxious. During the second half, he notably declined to take a crucial conversion kick, indicating discomfort.
Instead, Dylan Edwards performed the kick, as Cleary remarked to a physiotherapist, "my foot is f***ed." Previously, Cleary had successfully made a field-goal attempt but was seen limping afterwards.
Coach Ivan Cleary acknowledged post-match that there was "something wrong" with Nathan's foot, adding that the decision to let Edwards kick was based on precaution.
If scans indicate no serious damage, it will be a relief for the Panthers. Nathan has previously played through injuries in finals, raising questions about his resilience and readiness.